How to support my Suicidal Teenager

@LKD

Suicidality is rough on everyone involved. As someone with both a lived and living experience of suicide, all I can say is ask for help, and keep trying to be supportive. This looks more like patience than anything - your child will connect when they are ready or able. In the meanwhile, use the services out there - phonelines and webchats not only for trained advice, but to support your own wellbeing too.

As my first post I am unsure of the etiquette, but I saw the date and zero replies and felt compelled. No one should have to face this kind of dark alone.

@ninjaestllama

Just wanted to reassure you that the original post was posted in a couple of separate threads and people did reply (https://saneforums.org/messages/1890668). Your empathy is very evident and I like how you also pointed LKD in the direction of the support lines who can help them and help them support their child.

He probably feels uncomfortable talking about it. Just keep telling him that you love him, that your really proud of him and that he can come to you about anything. Tell him that if he ever wants to talk your always there for him and that you won't judge him. Tell him that there is no problem in life he can't come to you about and make it clear that no matter what you will always be there for him. Don't try and get him to open up just tell him these things and he will come to you on his own when his ready. Just hearing that someone is there if you need them, that they care and that they won't be judged really means a lot. Letting him know that your proud of him and that you will always be proud of him no matter what. Just hearing these things can make life easier. If you try and make him talk when his not ready he will shut down. Give him hugs for no reason and simply ask if his okay. Just spending time together helps too. If he does open up to you do not react to anything that he tells you negatively, just hear it and accept it even if it makes you angry or disappointed. If he is able to tell you things without fear of you getting upset or angry he will start to tell you more and more. Get him someone professional to talk to because often it's easier to talk to someone that's not involved in your life. Just keep offering love, support, and understanding. He needs to see a doctor and he needs to be honest with them. Medication can really help too.